(Austin) – Today Representative David Simpson (R-Longview) issued the following statement regarding false information being spread in an attempt to deceive Members.

“This week has afforded us just one more example of the kinds of tactics that some of the Speaker’s supporters are willing to use to maintain power,” said Simpson.

“When faced with reasonable opposition, supporters of the current Speaker resort to anonymous blogs, posting fabrications without even the pretense of proof. Their impunity is no doubt emboldened by their anonymity.

“Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer sent a letter today to the Speaker and myself, copying all the House, in which he admonished the Speaker for allowing such activity and calling for a race that respects the traditions of the House and upholds a standard of transparency and honesty with the Members. I could not agree more. In fact, it is precisely the lack of such a standard in the current leadership that led me to run in the first place.

“These tactics exemplify what’s wrong with ‘politics as usual’ in Texas right now. As I stated in my original letter to the House and a press release since, we must leave behind the politics of whispered insinuations, intimidation, and retribution. I join Rep. Fischer in calling on all parties, including my supporters, to rise above the fray. What we need is courageous, honest, forthright leadership that stands in the open and on principle.

“There is perhaps one insight that the blog did actually correctly recognize: I am willing to work with all members, regardless of party, seniority, or personal affiliations to ensure a fair administration of the House.

“I am running a very personal campaign simply calling and meeting with each member of the House. My candidacy is an invitation to restore the ‘principles of liberty and free government’ in the operation of the Texas House.

“Baseless and anonymous attacks attempting to deceive Members prove once more my reasons for running and only bolster my efforts to win this race.”

Representative Simpson lives in Longview with his wife of 27 years, Susan, and their children. Simpson, a seventh-generation Texan, runs a family business and previously served as the mayor of Avinger for several years.